Revolution Less Powerful

[Jupiter_x]

Nintendo president concedes 360 and PS3 will have more horsepower. Comments inside.
by Matt Casamassina
September 29, 2005 - In a recent interview with television network G4, Nintendo president Satoru Iwata reiterated the company's plans to go after non-gamers and simultaneously conceded that its next-generation console would lack the horsepower of competitors. The statement can likely be filed under the not-so-surprising category for readers who have followed previous Big N announcements on the still-codenamed Revolution, which has from the beginning been positioned as a pick-up-and-play alternative to traditional videogame machines. But even so, the executive's latest words on the subject offer the most concrete confirmation yet that as far as tech specs go, Revolution may not be on equal levels as Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3.


"If you are just going to compare the spec sheets and spec numbers, Revolution may not have an equal or higher number as the PlayStation 3 or Xbox 360. But the fact of the matter is that if people are going to connect our machine and their machine to an ordinary TV set at home and try to compare the differences, I really don't think that they can tell such a huge difference between the machines," Iwata told G4.
The Nintendo president, however, did not elaborate on whether gamers would be able to distinguish dramatic graphical differences between Revolution games running on regular TVs and 360 or PS3 software running in high-definition on capable sets.

Regardless, the Big N seems convinced that the Revolution's innovative new controller will attract new audiences previously uninterested in conventional videogames.


Nintendo president Satoru Iwata

"Nintendo has been eager to expand the gaming population. In order to do so, we have to invite the people who are not currently playing with the videogames at all. In this challenge, if we are simply going to say, 'Look, we have better graphics,' I really don't think they will be intrigued to play the videogames. After all, they are not interested in videogames and also a [graphics] comparison doesn't make any difference for their judgment to either buy or not buy the videogames," Iwata stated. "Rather, in order to invite them to the world of gaming we have to dispatch the message, 'This is something relevant for you. This is interesting for you. So why don't you touch it? If you touch it, we are sure that you're going to love it.' That kind of a message is more important than saying that we have more beautiful graphics."

Nintendo believes that Revolution will be unique enough to happily coexist as a second system, even for players who make 360 or PS3 their primary console.

"And for those other gameplayers who are eager to purchase the PlayStation 3 or Xbox 360, we don't care because we believe they are willing to purchase Revolution as well," Iwata said. "They are different machines. After all, Revolution can give players an experience that is quite different from the experience given by Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3. We are trying to make Revolution so that it makes sense for [consumers] to buy both."

Further, Iwata seems confident that Revolution's original new control mechanics could be just the thing the company needs to regain a top spot in the populated home console arena.

"In the end, Revolution is going to be held and appreciated by so many people more than the people who love to play with the Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3," he said.

Questioned on the subject, Iwata refused to talk price points for Revolution, stating that it was too premature to go into specifics. However, he did indicate that both Xbox 360 (priced as high as $399 USD), and PS3, which is likely to be more expensive still, could have a hard time attracting non-gamers.

"Revolution's price must be affordable for non-gamers as well," he added.

Source: G4


http://cube.ign.com/articles/654/654764p1.html (http://cube.ign.com/articles/654/654764p1.html)


Hmmmmm, not to sound Anti-Nintendo here, but either they are really stupid or really smart.
1. They finally realize that they cannot compete with Sony and M$ anylonger so they offer the "Alternative" gaming system as a secondary console with Unique gameplay. This would be a Smart move on Nintendo's part.

2. They really aren't trying very hard, or they just feel it isn't necessary to upgrade the power of a system that is still at least 1 year away. The ball is in Nintendo's court, they have enough time and following to come out on top. Their chances are running thin. They better come out with somthing incredible or they could sink.
I am not one to go for raw power but by not keeping up with the competition could spell disaster, regardless if they offer unique and even better gaming experiences over the other two.
I hope Iwata knows what he is doing.

[Gadfly2317]

I think they need to hone their message so as not to alienate current gamers. "Going after non-gamers" is all well and good, but it would help if in these interviews Iwata would emphasize the point that for life-long jaded gamers, the Revolution will offer them new experiences that horse-power alone cannot.

While in general I understand what Nintendo is doing and agree with their overall gaming philosophy, I find Iwata to be consistently dissapointing; I think Jim Merrick from the European division does a much better job as a mouthpiece for Nintendo.

[Fivespot]

http://cube.ign.com/articles/654/654764p1.html (http://cube.ign.com/articles/654/654764p1.html)


Hmmmmm, not to sound Anti-Nintendo here, but either they are really stupid or really smart.
1. They finally realize that they cannot compete with Sony and M$ anylonger so they offer the "Alternative" gaming system as a secondary console with Unique gameplay. This would be a Smart move on Nintendo's part.

2. They really aren't trying very hard, or they just feel it isn't necessary to upgrade the power of a system that is still at least 1 year away. The ball is in Nintendo's court, they have enough time and following to come out on top. Their chances are running thin. They better come out with somthing incredible or they could sink.
I am not one to go for raw power but by not keeping up with the competition could spell disaster, regardless if they offer unique and even better gaming experiences over the other two.
I hope Iwata knows what he is doing.

Only time will tell - but I think they are really smart. What they are basically saying IMO is that they aren't going to play along with the super-duper arms race that is the Sony vs. MS battle wherein they keep just one upping each other leaving consumers to foot the bill regardless of whether or not consumers want more horsepower, DVD capabilities, HD compatibility, MP3's, etc...

If they release at $200 or so, the may attract all of the folks not willing to blow $400-$600 on a console and 1 game (depending on what Sony charges). Plus it sound like Nintendo will leverage there entire gaming library which is pretty strong when looking at all the years they've invested in this industry while providing a new way of playing that may attract a whole new audience in addition to keeping a few of us regular gamers around.

The entire industry is boomin like crazy with mass money being thrown at games, online services, hardware, etc.. and they are smart to realize this trend and look for a way to capitalize on it by offering a unique option at a much lesser price.

Remember Nintendo actually made money this entire generation with the handheld market added to boot (which made them a ton as well). As a business, they are no dummys.

MS and Sony want to take over our entire media library and make trillions while Nintendo just wants to continue turning a profit rather than take over the world ;)

[Mochan]

I gotta admit Iwata has guts to confront that truth and admit it for the whole world to hear. If I were him, I would just never bring it up in the first place and skirt around any questions about it.

Personally I think he has a point in that the first wave of games will not show much difference between the power of the consoles. Games later on in the console lifecycle will probably kick the Rev's butt, but right now he is on to something when saying that a gamer will be hard-pressed to see any difference.

HOWEVER.... that is at 480p. Let's face it, anyone without eye defects will be able to distinguish between 480p and 720p, and even if the 480p game looks better artistically or whatever, the 720p game is just going to look so much smarter and it's going to be plain for everyone to see.

He can only bank on the normal people (non gamers) who don't have HD sets to want the system, and that these non-critical consumers will patronize his product. Ultimately, it's all about whether Nintendo can expand the market or not.

The Rev is not a hardcore gamer's choice, and Nintendo is pretty much anti-marketing it against such a crowd.

[Jupiter_x]

"Going after non-gamers" is all well and good, but it would help if in these interviews Iwata would emphasize the point that for life-long jaded gamers, the Revolution will offer them new experiences that horse-power alone cannot..

While in general I understand what Nintendo is doing and agree with their overall gaming philosophy, I find Iwata to be consistently dissapointing; I think Jim Merrick from the European division does a much better job as a mouthpiece for Nintendo.


Yes, you nailed it bang on. Iwata sometimes just pisses me off with the ideas and things he comes out with. I mean: Admitting to lesser power, "Appealing to non-gamers?" HUH?...well this could be good and bad. Admitting themselves as the "Secondary System of choice. I really fear what this could end up being. I hope all the games on Rev aren't these "Lets show off what the controller can do, mini games" much like Eye toy. Or Simple games that are easy to Pick up and go, "Childish" games. I really had fun with Wario Ware touched but if this is any indication of what the future holds for the big "N" than I think PS3 will be the only one. They better have the tried and true killer apps, some fantastic new creations and also some openings for those "Appeal to non gamer" games aswell. I want Nintendo to reign victor....not become nor admit being secondary!

[Jupiter_x]

Only time will tell - but I think they are really smart. What they are basically saying IMO is that they aren't going to play along with the super-duper arms race that is the Sony vs. MS battle wherein they keep just one upping each other leaving consumers to foot the bill regardless of whether or not consumers want more horsepower, DVD capabilities, HD compatibility, MP3's, etc...

If they release at $200 or so, the may attract all of the folks not willing to blow $400-$600 on a console and 1 game (depending on what Sony charges). Plus it sound like Nintendo will leverage there entire gaming library which is pretty strong when looking at all the years they've invested in this industry while providing a new way of playing that may attract a whole new audience in addition to keeping a few of us regular gamers around.

The entire industry is boomin like crazy with mass money being thrown at games, online services, hardware, etc.. and they are smart to realize this trend and look for a way to capitalize on it by offering a unique option at a much lesser price.

Remember Nintendo actually made money this entire generation with the handheld market added to boot (which made them a ton as well). As a business, they are no dummys.

MS and Sony want to take over our entire media library and make trillions while Nintendo just wants to continue turning a profit rather than take over the world ;)

A very good point indeed. I still go by that rule, I want Nintendo to march to a different beat. But at the same time I don't want it to get ridiculous! By all means create those "Appealing" games that will attract Non Gamers, but don't forget about the hardcore fans expecting a Zelda, Metroid and even something new and pretty to go up against Halo,MGS or Killzone. Nintendo could do so much more, that is all I am saying.

Summary: Revolution + Halflife 2 or 3 + Mario 128, Zelda, Metriod + "Non gamer Appealing games" and say....uh.....FEAR or even Stalker thrown into the mix =Victory!

[GameLegend]

I watched the interview, and as much as I am excited with the revolution, the interview was very dull.

I think Nintendo should stop having Itawa represent them on the media. I am sure he can speak Japanese fluently but English is another matter. The way he spoke, it gave the viewer the impression that he was very indecisive and unreliable . He did a wonderful job NOT answering the question but running around it. I think Nintendo should have better spokesmen representing their product. I am sure Mr. Itawa is a wonderful president for Nintendo, but he just shouldnt be used too much in the media, mainly when he is speaking English.

When you watch the interview, you'll know what I'm talking about.

[Superjoint Ritual]

It's strange seeing this type of attitude. I just don't like the whole " Hey, if you buy a 360 or Ps3, buy a revolution as well... It makes a great secondary console."

Software better kill Nintendo... I'm warning you.

[GameLegend]

It's strange seeing this type of attitude. I just don't like the whole " Hey, if you buy a 360 or Ps3, buy a revolution as well... It makes a great secondary console."

Software better kill Nintendo... I'm warning you.

yeah its almost like they are not trying. Like they wont satisfy the regular gamers. Lets hope this feeling is an illusion

[Jupiter_x]

yeah its almost like they are not trying. Like they wont satisfy the regular gamers. Lets hope this feeling is an illusion


Exactly, it's like I said in my thread starter, It seems that they just aren't trying very hard, and to them it seem unnecessary to keep up with the Joneses (Sony/M$). However branding yourself as the Secondary or Alternative could very well go in their favor and generate sales for the Rev, But why settle for just that? Nintendo has at least a year to draw up "Something Wicked". They could steal back that thunder, instead of maintaining that 3rd place position. Ohhhh the potential!

[T.Tashi]

So why don't you touch it? If you touch it, we are sure that you're going to love it.

I must say I've tried that line and it doesn't always work.

[Jupiter_x]

So why don't you touch it? If you touch it, we are sure that you're going to love it.

I must say I've tried that line and it doesn't always work.


I am going to play the waiting with Nintendo next time. I want to see just what kinds of must have titles they deliver. That controller sounds like a great idea but I have my doubts still.

[Brendon]

Iwata really is an idiot - how hard is it to just say that those who have been gaming for a long time don't really need to be sold on the revolution, and rather than go for the millions of mountain dew idiots who they could never get anyway, they're aiming for those who arn't in the demographic - YET.

See how smart and overzealously superior I come across as - that's how they have to sound about it.

[ThaMaskedGamer]

http://cube.ign.com/articles/654/654764p1.html (http://cube.ign.com/articles/654/654764p1.html)


Hmmmmm, not to sound Anti-Nintendo here, but either they are really stupid or really smart.
1. They finally realize that they cannot compete with Sony and M$ anylonger so they offer the "Alternative" gaming system as a secondary console with Unique gameplay. This would be a Smart move on Nintendo's part.

2. They really aren't trying very hard, or they just feel it isn't necessary to upgrade the power of a system that is still at least 1 year away. The ball is in Nintendo's court, they have enough time and following to come out on top. Their chances are running thin. They better come out with somthing incredible or they could sink.
I am not one to go for raw power but by not keeping up with the competition could spell disaster, regardless if they offer unique and even better gaming experiences over the other two.
I hope Iwata knows what he is doing.

They've completely isolated themselves on the console front. They will get even less 3rd party support. Current gamers aren't going to fall for the controller trick in droves and potential new consumers will get sucked into the 360/PS3 craze before they get a chance to care. Plus the technology, or lack of it, is going to hurt the console. You can't even watch a DVD without buying some type of device that allows it, no HD either. This will be Nintendo's swan song in the console business.

[Mochan]

I have friends who are disgusted with the controller and have no intention of touching it with a ten foot pole. I think the controller is a great idea but Nintendo's current position, reputation as well as their marketing efforts are highly questionable.

[trebor]

All the horsepower in the world doesn't mean much without the software that drives it - this is where the Revolution has a slight advantage over the PS3/360. For good or ill, Nintendo is going ahead with their new controller, which means that there will be games on the system that can't be played anywhere else. Of course, the lack of a 3rd party multiplats could hurt, but let's face it, people wouldn't be buying those for the Rev anyways.

I don't believe that it's going to make a difference how many advanced graphic effects are on the screen for a exclusive game, since you don't have another system to compare them to. Whereas with the PS3 and 360, since they will undoubtably have mostly identical software libraries, there will be endless comparisons between the two systems and which one has "purtyer pictures on teh screen." Xbots can be a insecure lot, so I expect lots of defensive postering regarding the graphical qualities of whatever games are "it" for the week.

Nevertheless, last year before the PSP and DS were released, the vast majority of the gaming press were all a titter for the "sexy" Sony super handheld and had basically written off the DS as "gimmick". The PSP was "more powerful" with "better graphics" and it "could do everything under the sun", yet despite having less horsepower and a "gimmicky" control scheme, the DS is more then holding it's own against the PSP - because it has better GAMES.

Games people, not system horsepower, are what's important to a consoles success.

[Gadfly2317]

I have friends who are disgusted with the controller and have no intention of touching it with a ten foot pole. I think the controller is a great idea but Nintendo's current position, reputation as well as their marketing efforts are highly questionable.

Why are the disgusted? Do they understand it? Do they understand that traditional control will be provided?

It just seems like the most close minded thing in the world to love games but then rule out even trying out a controller from a company with decades of accolades as leader of innovation in the industry.

I mean, hell, I'm pretty skeptical about the 360, but I still can't wait until they set up demo kiosks so I can try it out. I'm a gamer after all. How can you not want to try something new?

[Mochan]

I don't believe that it's going to make a difference how many advanced graphic effects are on the screen for a exclusive game, since you don't have another system to compare them to. Whereas with the PS3 and 360, since they will undoubtably have mostly identical software libraries, there will be endless comparisons between the two systems and which one has "purtyer pictures on teh screen."

The problem here is that the exclusives on the Rev might look so bad that they are obviously a cut below whatever we are seeing on the PS3 or 360.

Why are the disgusted? Do they understand it? Do they understand that traditional control will be provided?

Yeah, they understand that, I didnt't even need to explain it. They just think it's a dumb idea altogether. I think the look of it has a big influence on that; I myself am no big fan of its looks.

I don't know why exactly he is apprehensive of the controller (this is the guy I borrowed the Gamecube from). Well he likes to talk things down but he tries them anyway and usually ends up a fan if it has any worth; this friend of mine was trash talking the XBox when it was first came out, but later on he got a good deal for it and bought one and he turned into a Halo/DOA Xbot. :)

[trebor]

The problem here is that the exclusives on the Rev might look so bad that they are obviously a cut below whatever we are seeing on the PS3 or 360.

Look so bad!? When I look at a game like Resident Evil 4 on the current Ninty hardware and then imagine what it could look like on a machine at least 2 - 3 (probably more) times powerful...that's a damn good looking game. Are gamers today so freaking spoiled that they must have the best looking games all the time?

By all accounts, if what has been seen "running in real time on PS3 hardware" is actually truly running in real time on PS3 hardware, then anything on the Rev, or the 360 for that matter, will seem to look really bad by comparison. So does that mean that both M$ and Ninty have no hope for the next gen?

Regardless, if you look at the graphical prowess of the PS2 when compared to the GC and the Xbox, it noticeably looks worse - yet that hasn't seemed to effect it's popularity much, has it? The PS2 has beaten the Xbox and GC in sales almost every single month since the Xbox and GC launch.

[Gadfly2317]

The problem here is that the exclusives on the Rev might look so bad that they are obviously a cut below whatever we are seeing on the PS3 or 360.


Nothing will look "bad" next generation due to hardware constraints.

Ps2's Okami looks more beautiful than Ps3's MGS4. We really are at a point were the graphics are going to be so intense that we should finally be able to stop quibbling over teeny effects differences and focus on gameplay. Whichever system has a graphical "edge" does not automatically mean the other systems look bad. It's one of the reasons I haven't written off the 360, despite the apparent edge Ps3 has; just waiting to see who's going to have the most original and fun games.

Play first, always, over graphics.

[Mochan]

Let me tell you, while RE4 has some great textures and models, the pixellation and resolution due to the hardware it's on is just horrible. I don't exaggerate when I say that I take a look at RE4 and compare it to say Call of Duty on the PC, and I say, "Man that game is a cut below."

Keep in mind though that this statement isn't entirely accurate; strictly speaking RE4 has better graphical design than COD. If it were on the PC, it would probably look better than COD. Again, its' the hardware that limits the visual prowess of the game.

And like I was saying.... Rev with its weaker hardware and 480p will look sad compared to what we will see on 360 and PS3 and 720p. It doesn't matter really how good the artists are behind the game; the resolution alone will make you say that its games are beneath the higher res ones.

I'm not going to comment on "what's running realtime on PS3 hardware right now," the main point I am contending is resolution. As long as the Rev refuses to go HD, it will look worse and without a doubt it will have no hope... not necessarily to survive next gen, but no hope to look better. That is all. It could still pull a win over the other two consoles overall but in terms of graphics it's not going to win, and that's what I was talking about.

Ps2's Okami looks more beautiful than Ps3's MGS4. We really are at a point were the graphics are going to be so intense that we should finally be able to stop quibbling over teeny effects differences and focus on gameplay

Oh no, resolution makes a LOT of difference and Okami may have better graphical design than MGS4 (or maybe not, debatable) but the resolution it's playing at is so low compared to MGS4's that you will not be able to deny MGS4 looks better.

Well that's how I see it, it may be because I game on PCs and consoles simultaneously but my sentiments are that, generally, console games (especially the ones from Japanese devs) have better graphical design all around however they suffer due to hardware limitations compared to what I see in PC games. Overall the PC games have better graphics and this is in large part due to hardware, technology and rendering techniques rather than actual artistic merit. Going from High Defintion 1280x1024 to 480p/i or less is just jarring to the senses.

[Superjoint Ritual]

All this HD talk really doesn't matter if you don't have a HD television, nore care to have one. I'm more concerned about storage format than anything else concerning the Revolution. Nintendo alway's has a way a ******* themselves over with storage format.